LudumData

Choosing a Programming Language for Ludum Dare

[raw] LD31LD #31 30. Nov 2014 · 13:11 UTC · 4 days before compo start by gingerBill · 2

Last time I did the Ludum Dare, it was a complete failure because I could not get it to compile on Windows. This was mostly due to working on Mac and using C++. This is usually not a problem but I was using libraries that could not get to link on Windows.

 

This time (if I do get the chance to do it), is to use a different language. I was wondering which language would be a better choice to use:

  • Java
  • Dart
  • Haxe

All 3 languages will work on most platforms (natively or web) but I can decide which one to use.

If I was to use Java, it would use LWJGL (version 3 now!!!) and try get it to work in an applet. This however I would be using plain OpenGL (not WebGL).

If I was to use Dart or Haxe, I would compile it to Javascript/HTML5 and use WebGL. I don’t know if this would be good as I don’t know how many people can support WebGL (especially within the Ludum community). Also cannot decide upon Dart or Haxe. I’ve messed around with both languages for awhile now and I like them both very much. I like the fact that Haxe can compile to virtually anything but Dart seems to be closer to Javascript which is easier for the web. Of these two, I’m probably swaying towards Haxe but only ever so slightly.

 

So out of the 3, which would be the best option?

  • Java -> Applet/App with OpenGL
  • Dart/Haxe -> JS  with WebGL

 

 

 

Tags: programming language

Comments

30. Nov 2014 · 15:08 UTC
From what I can tell, all three of these languages are just that: languages, not engines. There is probably not a lot inbuilt to streamline the production of a game (collision detection, etc), which is very important for gamejams.
30. Nov 2014 · 17:08 UTC
For LD, use whichever you know best.
30. Nov 2014 · 17:41 UTC
I’m using haxe this time. I’ve used dart before too. Both work great, Use whichever you’re more familiar with. It also depends on which framework you pick, haxe has a lot of options (I’m using snowkit), dart has StageXL or you can use straight canvas drawing.